If you’ve got business acumen or a background in healthcare, moving into pharmaceutical sales could be the perfect next step.
And if you've ever wondered what it's like to be at the forefront of innovations leading the pharmaceutical industry, engaging with healthcare professionals and contributing to the advancement of life-changing medications, then IQVIA could be for you.
We have a host of exciting opportunities for ambitious pharmaceutical sales representatives.
Explore Pharma sales jobs
But first, what is a pharmaceutical sales representative?
As a pharmaceutical sales representative, you are more than a salesperson – you are a healthcare advocate and a catalyst for positive change.
Your role involves forging strong relationships with healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, and nurses, to bring cutting-edge medical solutions to the forefront of patient care.
Are you a dynamic, results-driven individual eager to make a difference in patients' lives? Join IQVIA in a pivotal role where you'll be the driving force behind market growth for cutting-edge pharmaceutical products.
As a sales specialist, you'll engage with physician office-based customers, delivering impactful presentations that resonate with our core values of Client Focused, Results Driven, Teamwork, Flawless Execution, and Integrity.
This role goes beyond sales—it's about understanding unique geographic challenges, navigating managed healthcare intricacies, and making a genuine impact on healthcare outcomes.
At IQVIA, you'll not only contribute to a diverse and inclusive workplace but also unlock your full potential through continuous learning and recognition.
What does a day in the life of a pharmaceutical sales representative look like?
We spoke with Jo, a passionate pharmaceutical sales representative at IQVIA in the US, to uncover what it takes to succeed and what makes it such a rewarding role.
Read on to learn about the ins and outs of pharma sales jobs.
Why did you join IQVIA?
“I chose IQVIA after I had been a manufacturing rep with another pharmaceutical company for five years.
I liked the idea of having a different partnership or project to work on based on the duration of the contract for each project. This allowed me to learn different disease states and products to promote and continue my training and development in my selling skills.”
How did you become a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative?
“I worked in a business to business outside sales role for five years prior to applying for a pharmaceutical sales job. I had a track record of success that helped me land the job with a major pharmaceutical manufacturer.”
What does a typical day look like as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative at IQVIA?
“A typical day begins with a lot of preparation. On Sunday evening, I would run reports to help analyze and strategize the doctors I was targeting.
I prepared my pre-call plan so I knew the objective for every office I called on based on the analytics I had done prior. I always practiced my “closing” by switching it up at every call so I perfected the best way to ask the doctor to prescribe my product.
This was ultimately only acceptable if I had done my job in painting the patient profile in my doctor’s mind as to the ideal patient type that would benefit from the features of my particular product.”
What is your favorite thing about being a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative?
“My favorite part is setting a goal to achieve and achieving it. With being a pharmaceutical sales representative, you are given many tools to be successful.
The representative that leverages those tools and is very strategic in utilizing the analytics available always will outperform the average representative.
I also like to ask a lot of questions. Probing questions allow the dialogue between a sales representative and the doctor to determine each particular doctor’s prescribing habits and choices they make for their different patient types.”
What’s one piece of advice you would give to anyone looking to become a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative?
“Begin early in your college years participating in professional leadership opportunities such as groups, associations or sports.
Get a job in an outside sales capacity where you can learn the steps to making a sale and building strong customer relationships.
It’s also helpful to sign up to industry news to gain tips and guidance or find mentors to help you become a successful pharmaceutical sales representative.”
In your view, what makes a great Pharmaceutical Sales Representative?
“Preparation, planning, relationship building and constantly honing and developing your selling skills are key.
I always pride myself in bringing value to every call I make, always follow up when asked to do so, and never forget to close and ask for the business.”
Are you ready to make a real impact on healthcare?
IQVIA not only offers a platform for professional growth but also provides an environment where your passion for healthcare meets innovative solutions. Don't just dream about making a difference—seize the opportunity to be at the forefront of pharmaceutical advancements.
Join the ranks of dedicated professionals like Jo who are shaping the future of healthcare, one meaningful connection at a time.
Ready to embark on this thrilling journey? Start your exciting career in pharmaceutical sales at IQVIA today. Explore pharmaceutical sales jobs today.
The door to a world of possibilities is wide open—step in and make a lasting impact on healthcare!
